Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Have you always dreamed about having a flat stomach? Our physical appearance is one measure of our health and vitality, and a flatter tummy is one of those desired attributes. Events such as pregnancy or weight gain followed by weight loss can cause the skin and sometimes the underlying muscles to stretch allowing them not to return to their original shape. If you are tired of trying to get rid of the bulging and excess sagging skin that will not respond to diet and exercise then our board certified plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Center of the South can help. In our Atlanta based surgical center, tummy tucks are performed to give back the appearance and self-confidence you deserve. Are you a candidate, call today at 770-1242 to find out?
Abdominoplasty, or "tummy tuck" surgery, is a procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, tighten the abdominal muscles, and improve the appearance and contour of the abdomen. If the loose skin and fat deposits are limited to your lower abdomen, a partial abdominoplasty or "mini-tummy tuck", may be advised. Limited liposuction may also be performed in certain areas if indicated. It is important to discuss your concerns and expectations with your plastic surgeon prior to the procedure so that the best operation and outcome may be planned.
Candidates for Abdominoplasty
Are you a candidate? The best candidates are men or women who are healthy and in good shape, but are bothered by large fat deposits or loose skin around their abdomen that won’t respond to exercise and diet. If you have had multiple pregnancies and your abdominal muscles and skin have stretched beyond the point that they can return to normal, then this surgery is for you. As we age, we lose our skin elasticity and if you are slightly overweight with excess skin, this procedure can greatly enhance your appearance. If you plan on losing a lot of weight or plan future pregnancies, you should postpone the surgery.
About the Procedure
A partial abdominoplasty, with or without liposuction, is usually performed as an outpatient under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. A full abdominoplasty is sometimes scheduled with an overnight stay depending on the extent of the procedure. The length of the operation varies but is usually between 2 to 3 hours. An incision is made in the lower abdominal crease just above the pubic area and, in most cases, extends from hip to hip. Another incision is made around the umbilicus or navel. The skin and fatty tissues are elevated from the abdominal muscles all the way to the ribs. The underlying vertical muscles are stitched together which strengthens the abdominal wall and narrows the waistline. The remaining skin flap is stretched down, the excess skin and fat are removed, a new opening is made for the navel, and the incisions are closed. One or two drainage tubes are usually used temporarily to drain excess fluids from under the abdominal flap.
Recovering from Abdominoplasty Surgery
After your surgery, dressings and an abdominal binder or garment may be worn. For the first few days your abdomen will be swollen, and you are likely to feel some pain and discomfort. Most of your post-operative discomfort will be controlled by medications. Your doctor will give you instructions for showering and changing your dressings. You will not be able to stand straight at first, which is normal. However, we do encourage you to start walking as soon as possible. All sutures and drains are usually removed in one to two weeks. Some patients return to work after one or two weeks. You should be able to return to fairly normal activities in several weeks. However, strenuous activities are avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
Abdominoplasty will make great improvements in the appearance of your abdomen and will strengthen weakened abdominal muscles. Your scars may actually appear to worsen during the first few months as they heal but this is normal. Expect it to take nine months to a year for your scars to flatten and lighten in color. While they will never disappear completely, your abdomen scars will not show under your clothes or bathing suits.
Thousands of abdominoplasties are performed each year. When done by a qualified board certified plastic surgeon, the results are quite positive. However, there are always risks associated with any surgery. Complications include infection, blood clots, hematoma or seroma formation (blood and tissue fluid collections that may require removal), delayed healing with loss of tissue, and changes in abdominal sensation. Following your surgeon’s pre and post-operative instructions can minimize complications. The benefits of abdominoplasty usually far outweigh the risk. Most patients are extremely satisfied with their new abdominal contour. And, in most cases the results are long lasting if you follow a balanced diet and exercise.
Does this sound like the answer to your dream? Our Marietta based office is ready to answer any of the questions you might have. Tummy tuck surgery might make your dreams come true. A thorough medical examination and complete medical history is essential for a positive outcome. We treat patients from all over the world. Our state of the art surgical facility is intended to give you the best medical care in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere without the hustle and bustle of big city traffic. Call us today at 770-421-1242 to schedule your consultation.
